A talented group of local singers is celebrating a record-breaking year after raising more than £1,200 for charity. The members of Derby A Cappella collected the funds throughout 2025 by performing their unique brand of four-part harmony music. The group has decided to divide the money equally between four important causes that support people both at home and abroad.
The donations will be shared between Aquabox, Prostate Cancer UK, Treetops Hospice, and the Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People. This impressive total marks the most money the group has ever raised in nearly two decades of performing together.
Highest Amount in 20 Years
Martin Thorne said: "This is the highest amount we've raised in our almost 20 years' existence and it's a testimony both to the dedication of our singers and to the generosity of everyone who came to our performances."
Music Therapy Sessions Funded
The £300 donation to Rainbows Hospice will be used to fund music therapy sessions that help children communicate and find joy. Tracey Jones said: "On behalf of everyone at Rainbows, I want to express our heartfelt thanks to DAC for their incredible donation of £300. Their kindness enables us to offer vital care and support that makes an extraordinary difference to the lives of hundreds of families across the East Midlands. Just one of the ways this support helps is through our Music Therapy sessions. For many of the babies, children and young people in our care, music provides a unique way to communicate, express emotions, and find joy in the moment. Our Music Therapist tailors every session to each child’s needs, using instruments, songs, and sounds to create an environment of connection and creativity."
Music therapist Rosie explained that these sessions allow young people to express feelings they might not be able to say out loud. She said: "Music gives babies, children and young people a voice in a way nothing else can. Sessions can be structured, using music to reflect how they feel and help them express their emotions. By playing an instrument, they can convey feelings they’re unable to say out loud and it makes them feel like someone else gets it."
Diverse Repertoire and Community Presence
The group is known for singing everything from sea shanties and show tunes to popular hits from the sixties to today. Last year, they entertained local audiences at the refurbished Market Hall and held a special Christmas show for families.
Join or Book the Group
The singers meet every week at the Chester Green Community Centre at 7.30pm and are currently looking for new members to join them. If you enjoy singing or would like to book the group for an event, you can contact Martin Hamblett on 0775 166 2991. You can also find more details about their upcoming performances by visiting derbyacappella.co.uk or following them on Facebook.
